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Alert: Avoid Steel Bridge for evening commute, weekend during track and field championships

The Portland Bureau of Transportation advises the traveling public to avoid the Steel Bridge during Friday evening rush hour and over the weekend, as a nearby closure of NE Oregon Street will cause delays.

During the World Indoor Track and Field Championships, NE Oregon Street is closed, from NE Lloyd to NE First by the Oregon Convention Center (OCC), through 11:59 p.m. Sunday night. To reduce eastbound traffic congestion on the Steel Bridge, PBOT has closed the ramp from southbound NW Naito Parkway to the Steel Bridge for the duration of the closure of NE Oregon St.

NE Oregon Street is closed to motor vehicle and bicycle traffic but the sidewalks remain open for people walking.

Travelers on NW Everett Street should expect delays and consider turning at NW Broadway to use the Broadway Bridge or Burnside Bridge.

People attending the World Track & Field championships are strongly encouraged to ride the MAX light rail system or Portland Streetcar to the events.

No disruption is expected for people using bicycles on the Steel Bridge.

Portland will be the center of the track and field universe this weekend. From March 17-20 the 2016 IAAF World Indoor Track & Field Championships are being held at the convention center in Portland. It's also the first time in almost 30 years that the championships have been held in the United States, giving our city a rare opportunity to host thousands of fans, coaches, and international world-class athletes -- most Olympic-bound. The City of Portland is a proud sponsor, providing security as well as youth engagement opportunities.

FREE Events: In addition to the main competitions at the OCC, Pioneer Courthouse Square is the place to be for Portland 2016. FREE for the public to attend, Portland's "Living Room" will be the Medal Ceremony Plaza, March 17-20; you can watch all the action, sample Northwest food and beer, and stay for the FREE concerts in the evening.

Street Closures: Please note that with these large events scheduled, there will be traffic impacts around the OCC and Pioneer Square areas through March 21, so make sure you plan ahead with the Street Closures Map and check PBOT's downtown traffic impacts page (bit.ly/downtowntraffic) for the latest info. As both events are easily accessible by MAX light rail, bus, and streetcar lines, we encourage you to skip the drive and take public transit. See trimet.org or portlandstreetcar.org to plan your trip on public transit. Find a map of the closures under Spectator Information on the Portland2016.com web page.

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The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) is the steward of the City's transportation system, and a community partner in shaping a livable city. We plan, build, manage and maintain an effective and safe transportation system that provides access and mobility. www.portlandoregon.gov/transportation